Jesus once said, "blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God." At its core, this is what it means to live in Christian simplicity; it is to have one pure, undiluted desire to live in relationship with our Creator. If this simplicity of heart increasingly becomes the description of our lives, it will naturally manifest itself as a transformed view of our material things, our schedules, and our giving, as we lay aside anything that might hinder our one true passion of knowing Jesus.
It is only when we live in simplicity, relating to God out of a pure heart, that material things will find their proper place in our lives. Though most Christians today may not overtly desire wealth, rare is the Christian who would turn down material goods if they were offered! Yet in the early church, wealth was considered a burden to the owner, dangerous to his well being and a threat to his soul. Though poverty certainly presents challenges of its own, we recognize the unique challenges and burdens that the abundance of wealth can cause in its own right. To this end, we commit to thanking God for both the presence and absence of His material blessing in our lives, recognizing that He is able to work in us regardless of our financial situation. We reject materialism and consumerism in all its forms, recognizing that they are incompatible with the call of our Leader to lose our life for His sake (Mk 8:35). For those of us who have been blessed with much, this will naturally force us to make some difficult decisions with regards to money and material things.
Similarly, when pursuing Christ is the singular focus of our life, our schedules will naturally become simplified as well. There is no denying that wealth and busyness are linked; for the more wealth we possess, the more things we can do with our time! This common "affliction of affluence" is a particular enemy to the spiritual life and could not have been far from Jesus' mind when He said "it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God" (Mt 19:24). As a community, we recognize that an overscheduled lifestyle is incompatible with the call of Jesus. Naturally, this too will require difficult decisions regarding our own activities and our children's as well if we are to truly pursue Jesus with all of our hearts.
Further, if we are truly living in simplicity, we will naturally become more generous as well. For the person who has a single desire to live for Jesus, he will naturally view his possessions not for his good alone, but for the good of the entire community as well. This carefree unconcern towards one's one possessions, a hallmark of Christian simplicity, cannot be characterized by mere tithing alone. For this reason, COAH chooses not to stress the tithe as our standard of giving, but emphasizes the far more radical, cheerful generosity that is advocated by the New Testament (2 Cor 9). In accordance with this model, we agree that giving should not be done under compulsion, but should be done cheerfully and joyfully in an effort to meet the needs of others.
As a community, we agree to seek simplicity of life and heart, committing ourselves to this pursuit and agreeing to hold one another accountable to do the same. May God help us truly realize this simplicity and purity of heart together.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Building a Heart of Compassion
I just had the privilege of representing our church to a needy family in our area, and my family and I were able to bring a few gifts over for their kids and spread a bit of Christmas cheer. Their dad shared with me their hardships of late, from their old house burning down to his now being out of work. My heart really went out to them as he shared these things, and I found myself wishing I could do more for them in their time of need. On the way home, I thought of so many that I've encountered lately who are in such deep pain, suffering, and hurt, and I find these stories touching my heart so much more so than they used to. It seems that my cold heart is finally being tenderized and warmed to the plight of the needy after all these years.
Yet in my "traditional church" days, it seemed I would hear message after message about loving the poor, and nothing in my life would ever change. With each stirring sermon I'd hear about the importance of compassion for the needy, I'd find myself nodding in agreement to these idea, yet at the same time feeling frustrated and perplexed by the very concept. I realized the coldness and lack of compassion in my heart, but felt unable to change this state of my heart. "How can I live a life of compassion without a heart of compassion?", I wondered. "Oh, God, change my heart!" I would pray. And yet to my deep frustration, it seemed as if my heart did not and could not ever change.
But then we started City On A Hill Community. We believed that being around the poor, building relationships with them and hearing their stories would be far more honoring to God than continuing to sit around and talk about compassion. We all agreed that we had heard enough messages and had had enough Bible studies on serving to last a lifetime; it was time to put those lessons into action. Within a few short weeks, God opened a door for us to serve at the Wayside Center, a homeless shelter in Elgin, relationships began to build, and the rest, as they say, is history.
People can tell me all they want about how much they're growing from their pastor's deep Sunday morning sermons. That's great, and I'm happy for them. But in my life, the day I started growing in compassion was the day that a group of my friends decided that we would actually get to know, serve, and love the poor instead of having another Bible study on it. Until I heard the stories of the needy, prayed, laughed, and ate with them, I never knew what it meant to build a heart of compassion. But thanks to them, I know now. And for the first time in my life, I see myself really growing in love. And judging on the conversations I've had, many of us at COAH can say the same.
And if we are growing in love in this way, is that not the goal of all spirituality? If we find our hearts increasingly aching with the struggles of the needy, are we not reaching Christ's ultimate goal for our lives? To grow in compassion and love is not a part of spiritual growth, it is in fact spiritual growth. Thank God that for the first time in my life, I am truly growing spiritually.
Yet in my "traditional church" days, it seemed I would hear message after message about loving the poor, and nothing in my life would ever change. With each stirring sermon I'd hear about the importance of compassion for the needy, I'd find myself nodding in agreement to these idea, yet at the same time feeling frustrated and perplexed by the very concept. I realized the coldness and lack of compassion in my heart, but felt unable to change this state of my heart. "How can I live a life of compassion without a heart of compassion?", I wondered. "Oh, God, change my heart!" I would pray. And yet to my deep frustration, it seemed as if my heart did not and could not ever change.
But then we started City On A Hill Community. We believed that being around the poor, building relationships with them and hearing their stories would be far more honoring to God than continuing to sit around and talk about compassion. We all agreed that we had heard enough messages and had had enough Bible studies on serving to last a lifetime; it was time to put those lessons into action. Within a few short weeks, God opened a door for us to serve at the Wayside Center, a homeless shelter in Elgin, relationships began to build, and the rest, as they say, is history.
People can tell me all they want about how much they're growing from their pastor's deep Sunday morning sermons. That's great, and I'm happy for them. But in my life, the day I started growing in compassion was the day that a group of my friends decided that we would actually get to know, serve, and love the poor instead of having another Bible study on it. Until I heard the stories of the needy, prayed, laughed, and ate with them, I never knew what it meant to build a heart of compassion. But thanks to them, I know now. And for the first time in my life, I see myself really growing in love. And judging on the conversations I've had, many of us at COAH can say the same.
And if we are growing in love in this way, is that not the goal of all spirituality? If we find our hearts increasingly aching with the struggles of the needy, are we not reaching Christ's ultimate goal for our lives? To grow in compassion and love is not a part of spiritual growth, it is in fact spiritual growth. Thank God that for the first time in my life, I am truly growing spiritually.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
COAH's core practices- Commitment to Evangelism
What is the mission of the church? To answer this question, we should look no further than God's eternal mission, which is to reconcile His wayward sons and daughters to Himself. If this is God's primary mission, certainly this must be the mission of His church as well, who is called to partner with Him in carrying out this redemptive quest. Above all else, then, the church's mandate is a missional one, and “mission is the mission” for His bride. Christ has called each of us to be agents of His grace, peace, and light to the world; above all else, He desires that we might be the “sent ones” who change the landscape of our culture through the message of His love.
Yet Christ’s desire for His bride is left unfulfilled today; little doubt exists that a missional crisis exists in the church today. Today’s church operates in an attractional mode rather than a missional one; it expects the world to come to it rather than taking the gospel to them. Seldom does the church cross cultural barriers and engage society on its turf; despite today’s seeker-sensitive approaches, the world must still “come to church” to access the message of the gospel.
This shortage of missional engagement is not limited to the church at large, however. After conducting an exhaustive survey of Christians in America, George Barna that the typical American Christian will die without leading a single person to Christ in their lifetime. Barna's conclusions may seem eerily accurate for many of us; think quickly of the last person you led to Christ. If your life is anything like mine, I must admit I don’t have an answer to this question. The fact is unarguable: without drastic changes in the lives of most of us, this dearth of missional impact may well be our fate.
Recognizing that missional impact rarely occurs without being intentionally pursued, COAH has embraced a common commitment to evangelism and mission. We choose to make mission the organizing and defining feature of our community, holding it in higher regard than any other endeavors we might pursue. For if we aim primarily for our own spiritual growth, mission will naturally be overlooked; but if we as a community pursue evangelism mission above all else, we will discover not only the salvation of the lost but our own growth as well.
As a beginning step towards this purpose, we choose not to meet in secluded church buildings but in public places such as bars, parks, and bowling alleys for all our meetings. Yet a simple change in venue does not a missional community make; each member much make a personal commitment to reach out to and be a blessing to those around them, intentionally building bridges with their neighbors, family members, and coworkers. Only when each of us chooses to proactively incarnate Christ to those around us will we become a missional community rather than being attractional alone. Further, we commit to prayer for those far from God, beseeching His glory to invade and transform their lives. May God help us as we seek in this way to partner with Him in bringing His kingdom to earth.
Yet Christ’s desire for His bride is left unfulfilled today; little doubt exists that a missional crisis exists in the church today. Today’s church operates in an attractional mode rather than a missional one; it expects the world to come to it rather than taking the gospel to them. Seldom does the church cross cultural barriers and engage society on its turf; despite today’s seeker-sensitive approaches, the world must still “come to church” to access the message of the gospel.
This shortage of missional engagement is not limited to the church at large, however. After conducting an exhaustive survey of Christians in America, George Barna that the typical American Christian will die without leading a single person to Christ in their lifetime. Barna's conclusions may seem eerily accurate for many of us; think quickly of the last person you led to Christ. If your life is anything like mine, I must admit I don’t have an answer to this question. The fact is unarguable: without drastic changes in the lives of most of us, this dearth of missional impact may well be our fate.
Recognizing that missional impact rarely occurs without being intentionally pursued, COAH has embraced a common commitment to evangelism and mission. We choose to make mission the organizing and defining feature of our community, holding it in higher regard than any other endeavors we might pursue. For if we aim primarily for our own spiritual growth, mission will naturally be overlooked; but if we as a community pursue evangelism mission above all else, we will discover not only the salvation of the lost but our own growth as well.
As a beginning step towards this purpose, we choose not to meet in secluded church buildings but in public places such as bars, parks, and bowling alleys for all our meetings. Yet a simple change in venue does not a missional community make; each member much make a personal commitment to reach out to and be a blessing to those around them, intentionally building bridges with their neighbors, family members, and coworkers. Only when each of us chooses to proactively incarnate Christ to those around us will we become a missional community rather than being attractional alone. Further, we commit to prayer for those far from God, beseeching His glory to invade and transform their lives. May God help us as we seek in this way to partner with Him in bringing His kingdom to earth.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
COAH's Core Practices- Commitment to Joint Ministry
In today's American church, many use their spiritual gifts, but few actually function as ministers. To borrow military imagery, it is usually the paid staff in a church who function as the generals and the volunteers who function as the privates. Most traditional volunteer positions, such as directing traffic, child care in the nursery, running the sound board, or often even leading a small group largely augment and support the work of paid staff, and with rare exceptions, it is those paid staff alone that function as ministers in the true sense of the word. At the end of the day, it is the pastors who form ministry plans, oversee their execution, and recruit volunteers to carry out those plans; all the actual responsibility for the ministry is theirs. To the average American churchgoer, who consumeristically views church as a place to "get fed" rather than a place to give, the idea of actually owning the work of the church's ministry seems a rather foreign and strange concept.
In contrast to this state of affairs in the American church stands the Biblical model of joint ministry. Scripture tells us that as a result of their standing in Christ, all believers are called be functioning priests in God's house (1 Peter 2:4). In Christ, ranks and titles have been eliminated, and all are equal in His economy (Col. 3:11, Matt. 23:8-10). All believers have been commissioned by Christ to make disciples (Matt. 28:19). This call to make disciples is independent of one's background, training, education, or economic status, for in Christ, "there is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free" (Gal. 3:28).
For these reasons, COAH strives to be a church where its members do not merely volunteer, but where the responsibility of ministry is shared between all. To this end, we have no paid pastors or staff, as we believe all believers are ministers in the truest sense of the word. We seek to be a church comprised of fully functioning priests, having the boldness and authority to represent our Savior to a watching world. We aim to transcend the arbitrary, man-made distinction between clergy and laity as each member fulfills their unique ministerial role in the Body of Christ. We commit ourselves to this effort, and pledge to hold one another accountable in this regard. May God help us in this endeavor.
In contrast to this state of affairs in the American church stands the Biblical model of joint ministry. Scripture tells us that as a result of their standing in Christ, all believers are called be functioning priests in God's house (1 Peter 2:4). In Christ, ranks and titles have been eliminated, and all are equal in His economy (Col. 3:11, Matt. 23:8-10). All believers have been commissioned by Christ to make disciples (Matt. 28:19). This call to make disciples is independent of one's background, training, education, or economic status, for in Christ, "there is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free" (Gal. 3:28).
For these reasons, COAH strives to be a church where its members do not merely volunteer, but where the responsibility of ministry is shared between all. To this end, we have no paid pastors or staff, as we believe all believers are ministers in the truest sense of the word. We seek to be a church comprised of fully functioning priests, having the boldness and authority to represent our Savior to a watching world. We aim to transcend the arbitrary, man-made distinction between clergy and laity as each member fulfills their unique ministerial role in the Body of Christ. We commit ourselves to this effort, and pledge to hold one another accountable in this regard. May God help us in this endeavor.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Our core practices
The mission statement of City On A Hill community is “to make disciples through the love of Jesus.” But what does this mean? What exactly is discipleship anyway? And perhaps even more importantly, how is it achieved?
In its simplest sense, to be a disciple simply means to follow and imitate one’s teacher in every way. Though there are many facets to discipleship, the concept becomes easiest to grasp when we focus on this simple definition: “imitation of one’s teacher.” If our mission then as a church is produce disciples of Jesus, we must not only ask ourselves how this goal will be achieved, but must find an objective measure to determine if we are meeting this goal as a community.
As Alan Hirsch notes, “thinking your way into a new way of acting” is the acting assumption in most American churches. Fill attenders’ minds with enough information about the Bible and theology, give them enough quality sermons and study guides, it is reasoned, and godly living will naturally follow. Yet this was not the model of Jesus or of the Hebraic model of discipleship prevalent in His day, which operated on the model of “acting one’s way into a new way of thinking.” In Jesus’ day and in His ministry, the emphasis in discipleship was on being rather than thinking, and on imitation of one's teacher rather than the mere assimilation of knowledge.
With Jesus’ example in mind, we then seek as a church to become disciples ourselves by acting our way into a new way of thinking. As we begin this pursuit, we have committed ourselves as a church to five core practices that will begin to define for us what discipleship should look like in the context of our community. Together, we pray these practices will be positive steps towards our goal of imitating our teacher: JESUS.
J- Commitment to Joint Ministry (Eph. 4:16)
E- Commitment to Evangelism (Matt. 5:16)
S- Commitment to Solitude (Matt. 6:6)
U- Commitment to Unity (Matt. 18:20)
S- Commitment to Simplicity (Luke 12:33)
Though these practices may sound basic and elementary at first glance, they will possess far-reaching profound implications for our lives if we are truly serious about employing them. In the weeks to come, we will begin to unpack each of these practices as we seek to better understand their implications in our daily lives.
In its simplest sense, to be a disciple simply means to follow and imitate one’s teacher in every way. Though there are many facets to discipleship, the concept becomes easiest to grasp when we focus on this simple definition: “imitation of one’s teacher.” If our mission then as a church is produce disciples of Jesus, we must not only ask ourselves how this goal will be achieved, but must find an objective measure to determine if we are meeting this goal as a community.
As Alan Hirsch notes, “thinking your way into a new way of acting” is the acting assumption in most American churches. Fill attenders’ minds with enough information about the Bible and theology, give them enough quality sermons and study guides, it is reasoned, and godly living will naturally follow. Yet this was not the model of Jesus or of the Hebraic model of discipleship prevalent in His day, which operated on the model of “acting one’s way into a new way of thinking.” In Jesus’ day and in His ministry, the emphasis in discipleship was on being rather than thinking, and on imitation of one's teacher rather than the mere assimilation of knowledge.
With Jesus’ example in mind, we then seek as a church to become disciples ourselves by acting our way into a new way of thinking. As we begin this pursuit, we have committed ourselves as a church to five core practices that will begin to define for us what discipleship should look like in the context of our community. Together, we pray these practices will be positive steps towards our goal of imitating our teacher: JESUS.
J- Commitment to Joint Ministry (Eph. 4:16)
E- Commitment to Evangelism (Matt. 5:16)
S- Commitment to Solitude (Matt. 6:6)
U- Commitment to Unity (Matt. 18:20)
S- Commitment to Simplicity (Luke 12:33)
Though these practices may sound basic and elementary at first glance, they will possess far-reaching profound implications for our lives if we are truly serious about employing them. In the weeks to come, we will begin to unpack each of these practices as we seek to better understand their implications in our daily lives.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Reflections on our celebration
I don't know about you, but I had a great time this morning celebrating Tim's birthday. I find it a microcosm of our calling as a church, as part of what it means to be the church is to celebrate one another. That's really what celebrating a birthday is; it's just saying to another, "thank you for being who you are." Certainly such a celebration for one's mere existence and being born among us is consistent with the mission of the church, to celebrate and accept each and every individual not for what they accomplish, not for what they say or do, but rather for their innate worth as human beings created in the image of God. I found it striking to read this week in Henri Nouwen's book "Here and Now" that he lists the celebration of birthdays as one of the hallmarks of living in the present as God calls us to do. As a church, I hope and pray that we become known as the church who judges no one, who celebrates and accepts all who visit our community. May we be known as a body who lives in the present, who does not complain and fault find about the mistakes some may have made in their past, who speculates not on what may happen in their future, but celebrates the present reality of God's glory resting on each individual that walks through our doors. What an awesome calling and an awesome ministry God has entrusted to us. May there be many more celebrations like this to come!
Monday, October 12, 2009
Our core values
This past week, we discussed the topic of discipleship and its importance to our community. If in fact our mission statement is to make disciples, then it's of vital importance to figure out what discipleship in fact is and what the life of a disciple should look like. What kind of living is normative for those who claim to be disciples of Jesus? In turn, if our mission is to make disciples, then what kind of living is expected for us as disciples and members of this community ? These are the questions we need to ask to make sure our mission statement is in fact being lived out in our day to day lives.
In our attempt to answer this question, "what is normal living for a disciple?", we began by discussing what our core values are as a community. From there, we can determine how those core values should be lived out in our daily lives, and discover what a "normal" life should look like for us. These are the values, then, that we agreed upon as defining us as a community.
1) Love and service - our mission statement says that we seek to make disciples "through showing the love of Jesus." Discipleship is the goal; love is the means. Through showing compassion to the less fortunate, by loving others in our workplaces, neighborhoods, and in our church, we aim to draw others to Him. As Jesus said, "by this all men will know you are my disciples, if you love one another." As a community, this is what we should be known for above all else; as redeemed men and women who are intent on sharing Christ's love with our lives. As a small step towards that goal, we serve at Wayside (and soon at Bright Hope) regularly as part of our weekly worship.
2) Being missional- rather than a technical Christian buzzword, it's easiest to think of "being missional" as simply meeting people where they're at. This has many implications, one of which taking church to people rather than waiting for them to come to us. Hence, we have no building, and meet in parks or public places whenever possible. Though these are only beginning steps in what it means to be missional, these simple measures remind us of the importance of this concept.
3) Breaking bread - as part of our weekly meeting, we share a meal together. This is our way of celebrating the Lord's Supper, which in the early church was commemorated with a meal as well. By breaking bread together, we are reminded of Christ's body and blood broken for us. And, of course, it must be free by definition!
4) Speaking the truth in love- though we honor and respect all viewpoints, this does not mean we subscribe to a notion of relative truth that says "you have your truth and I have mine." We passionately proclaim the truth not merely as our truth, but God's truth; it naturally follows that some ideas are right and some are wrong; some are Biblical, and some are not! Yet this does not mean we do not respect other's viewpoints, even if we believe they are wrong. It is possible to discuss varying viewpoints, and passionately adhere to one's position as the truth, and yet not be divisive or demaning in the process. This is what we aim to do in all our interactions with one another; speak the truth, but do so in love and respect, in a way that does not divide but unifies.
5) Priesthood of the believer- this sounds like a churchy term, but it's really a practical one- it simply means that all believers have the authority to approach God and serve Him just as much as anyone else; no more, no less. We are all ministers, and reject artifical distinctions between clergy and laity. To this end, we have no paid staff, but seek to carry out the Lord's work in a volunteer fashion alone, as each member does his part in accordance with his gifting. This is what it means to be the body of Christ. In Christ, we recognize that are all equals, and we are all capable of teaching and admonishing one another in equal measure.
And above all else, we are 6) Christ centered. We have agreed upon the above not because we like them, but because these are the values that Christ modeled in His ministry. He was the one who drew people to Himself because of His radical love, who broke down walls between Jews and Gentiles, between male and female through His work on the cross. He is the Truth, and He is our high priest so that we may enter God's presence with boldness. It is His example that we seek to model, and this is what it means to be a disciple: to be an imitator of one's teacher. By God's grace may we truly be His disciples in following His example.
So here's my question for you: with these core values in mind, what are our minimum discipleship standards? If we claim to be His disciples, what practical measures should each of us be taking in our daily lives? How can these core values be lived out in our daily lives, and what are some key practices we can employ to live them out? We will seek to answer these questions in the coming weeks.
In our attempt to answer this question, "what is normal living for a disciple?", we began by discussing what our core values are as a community. From there, we can determine how those core values should be lived out in our daily lives, and discover what a "normal" life should look like for us. These are the values, then, that we agreed upon as defining us as a community.
1) Love and service - our mission statement says that we seek to make disciples "through showing the love of Jesus." Discipleship is the goal; love is the means. Through showing compassion to the less fortunate, by loving others in our workplaces, neighborhoods, and in our church, we aim to draw others to Him. As Jesus said, "by this all men will know you are my disciples, if you love one another." As a community, this is what we should be known for above all else; as redeemed men and women who are intent on sharing Christ's love with our lives. As a small step towards that goal, we serve at Wayside (and soon at Bright Hope) regularly as part of our weekly worship.
2) Being missional- rather than a technical Christian buzzword, it's easiest to think of "being missional" as simply meeting people where they're at. This has many implications, one of which taking church to people rather than waiting for them to come to us. Hence, we have no building, and meet in parks or public places whenever possible. Though these are only beginning steps in what it means to be missional, these simple measures remind us of the importance of this concept.
3) Breaking bread - as part of our weekly meeting, we share a meal together. This is our way of celebrating the Lord's Supper, which in the early church was commemorated with a meal as well. By breaking bread together, we are reminded of Christ's body and blood broken for us. And, of course, it must be free by definition!
4) Speaking the truth in love- though we honor and respect all viewpoints, this does not mean we subscribe to a notion of relative truth that says "you have your truth and I have mine." We passionately proclaim the truth not merely as our truth, but God's truth; it naturally follows that some ideas are right and some are wrong; some are Biblical, and some are not! Yet this does not mean we do not respect other's viewpoints, even if we believe they are wrong. It is possible to discuss varying viewpoints, and passionately adhere to one's position as the truth, and yet not be divisive or demaning in the process. This is what we aim to do in all our interactions with one another; speak the truth, but do so in love and respect, in a way that does not divide but unifies.
5) Priesthood of the believer- this sounds like a churchy term, but it's really a practical one- it simply means that all believers have the authority to approach God and serve Him just as much as anyone else; no more, no less. We are all ministers, and reject artifical distinctions between clergy and laity. To this end, we have no paid staff, but seek to carry out the Lord's work in a volunteer fashion alone, as each member does his part in accordance with his gifting. This is what it means to be the body of Christ. In Christ, we recognize that are all equals, and we are all capable of teaching and admonishing one another in equal measure.
And above all else, we are 6) Christ centered. We have agreed upon the above not because we like them, but because these are the values that Christ modeled in His ministry. He was the one who drew people to Himself because of His radical love, who broke down walls between Jews and Gentiles, between male and female through His work on the cross. He is the Truth, and He is our high priest so that we may enter God's presence with boldness. It is His example that we seek to model, and this is what it means to be a disciple: to be an imitator of one's teacher. By God's grace may we truly be His disciples in following His example.
So here's my question for you: with these core values in mind, what are our minimum discipleship standards? If we claim to be His disciples, what practical measures should each of us be taking in our daily lives? How can these core values be lived out in our daily lives, and what are some key practices we can employ to live them out? We will seek to answer these questions in the coming weeks.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Growing Towards Being More Loving
How is everyone doing with trying to be more loving people this week? Feel free to share your successes and failures, and any new ideas for keeping Christ's mindset in our minds, and seeing people as He does.
Food for Sept. 20
Who is bringing the main dish this week? What is everyone else planning on bringing? I will bring a pasta or broccoli salad.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Sunday, September 5
Who's bringing what this week? And who's in charge of the main dish this time? (If you're bringing sandwiches and wondering how much of what to buy, ask Jess or Angela.)
Anything I missed? Maybe we should spray for bees beforehand, I think someone said they might have some spray at home?
Anything I missed? Maybe we should spray for bees beforehand, I think someone said they might have some spray at home?
Monday, August 31, 2009
Fall and Winter plans
Hey guys. It's time that we start thinking about our plans for the fall as our time at Festival Park will soon be up. There's a number of possibilities, but before we formally investigate any of them I thought we should have an in-house discussion on these things first.
First, we are thinking about cutting back to one meeting at Wayside per month. I think we've built up some incredible momentum having a regular meeting every week lately, and I think we might be better served (not to mention being able to better minister to others) by going to Wayside once a month and doing our meetings with lunch 3 times a month. We could meet all 4 weeks and make Wayside an "extra thing" on top, but given that we believe serving others should be part of the regular rhythm of worship for all of us, I don't think that's a real good idea. The last thing we want to do is make serving at Wayside become an "extra credit question" that only a few people care to do. Besides, I think the guests have really been touched that all of us, by our regular attendance at the center, have shown a vested interest in their lives. Another idea would be to set up a 2nd serving event in the city- this is something Julianne had mentioned. We are exploring all options at this point, and I am curious as to your thoughts.
With regards to a meeting place, we could go back to meeting at our house, but I actually think we shouldn't meet in a private home any longer. I fear that new people may be far less likely to consider checking the church out if we're meeting in the home of someone they've never met. To an outsider, it might seem a bit cultish. With that said, I think a public place is a better option. Some have mentioned renting a place, which we could do, but I would prefer a place that normal people hang out in like a bar or bowling alley. I think new people would be much more likely to check a church out that meets in a non-threatening spot like that (especially when followed by bowling!) . Given that we place a high value on redeeming places like this that the church usually forgets, I think such a place would be ideal. I tend to think you agree, but I am welcome to any dissenters.
So assuming you agree on this, we move on to discussing the geographic location where this should be done. It seems that right now, somewhat of a partnership is developing between ourselves and Wayside, and given that a few Wayside guests have been attending our meetings lately, it would seem a location not far from Wayside would work well. Given that many of them don't drive and that they need somewhere to eat on Sundays, I think a location close to them (like Elgin Lanes or a bar near Festival Park, for instance) might be preferred. However, I am nervous about the distance some of us would have to keep travelling. We never planned a location in Elgin when we started this whole thing, but up to this point, it seems that's how God has orchestrated things. If we didn't have any new people coming, we could meet anywhere, but I feel we may have to consider those new attenders as we pick our location....do you agree?
Anyway, I am curious to your thoughts on these things. What are your thoughts of only going to Wayside once a month going forward? Do you have any other specific thoughts on serving? What are your thoughts as to where we should meet? Let's get some discussion started here, and we can continue the discussion a bit this Sunday.
First, we are thinking about cutting back to one meeting at Wayside per month. I think we've built up some incredible momentum having a regular meeting every week lately, and I think we might be better served (not to mention being able to better minister to others) by going to Wayside once a month and doing our meetings with lunch 3 times a month. We could meet all 4 weeks and make Wayside an "extra thing" on top, but given that we believe serving others should be part of the regular rhythm of worship for all of us, I don't think that's a real good idea. The last thing we want to do is make serving at Wayside become an "extra credit question" that only a few people care to do. Besides, I think the guests have really been touched that all of us, by our regular attendance at the center, have shown a vested interest in their lives. Another idea would be to set up a 2nd serving event in the city- this is something Julianne had mentioned. We are exploring all options at this point, and I am curious as to your thoughts.
With regards to a meeting place, we could go back to meeting at our house, but I actually think we shouldn't meet in a private home any longer. I fear that new people may be far less likely to consider checking the church out if we're meeting in the home of someone they've never met. To an outsider, it might seem a bit cultish. With that said, I think a public place is a better option. Some have mentioned renting a place, which we could do, but I would prefer a place that normal people hang out in like a bar or bowling alley. I think new people would be much more likely to check a church out that meets in a non-threatening spot like that (especially when followed by bowling!) . Given that we place a high value on redeeming places like this that the church usually forgets, I think such a place would be ideal. I tend to think you agree, but I am welcome to any dissenters.
So assuming you agree on this, we move on to discussing the geographic location where this should be done. It seems that right now, somewhat of a partnership is developing between ourselves and Wayside, and given that a few Wayside guests have been attending our meetings lately, it would seem a location not far from Wayside would work well. Given that many of them don't drive and that they need somewhere to eat on Sundays, I think a location close to them (like Elgin Lanes or a bar near Festival Park, for instance) might be preferred. However, I am nervous about the distance some of us would have to keep travelling. We never planned a location in Elgin when we started this whole thing, but up to this point, it seems that's how God has orchestrated things. If we didn't have any new people coming, we could meet anywhere, but I feel we may have to consider those new attenders as we pick our location....do you agree?
Anyway, I am curious to your thoughts on these things. What are your thoughts of only going to Wayside once a month going forward? Do you have any other specific thoughts on serving? What are your thoughts as to where we should meet? Let's get some discussion started here, and we can continue the discussion a bit this Sunday.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Sunday, Aug 30
We'll (Jess and Eli) bring the sandwiches this week. What's everyone else bringing?
Remember this week is the due date for the school supply boxes as well as the day Julianne asked us to have donations of clothes, etc ready for her to pick up!
See you then!
Remember this week is the due date for the school supply boxes as well as the day Julianne asked us to have donations of clothes, etc ready for her to pick up!
See you then!
Monday, August 24, 2009
Some reflections
Hey guys- I was thinking about something after yesterday's meeting that I thought I'd share with you.
In 1 Samuel 22 we read about where David hid from Saul in the cave of Adullam. As David hid there in exile, we read in verse 2 that "everyone who was in distress, everyone who was in debt, and everyone who was discontented gathered unto him....there were about 400 men with him." Maybe you're familiar with the passage, maybe you're not- but I thought of that yesterday and how that should be a description of the church. The church should be known as the place where those down on their luck, in debt, and in distress can find refuge in a dangerous world.
I thought it was so cool how Maureen, Sylvia, and Diane joined us for the meeting yesterday, and how they were able to share that in the midst of the tough time they're going through right now, we have been a blessing to them, and how they plan to continue attending. As they shared, they have experienced Christ's love through our community, and I am so thankful for that.
But as I left, I thought again about that description of David and those that rallied around him. How cool would it be, I thought, if someday, Festival Park on Sunday mornings became known as the place to gather if you're down on your luck or in distress- and it was the place where all those in distress, in debt, and discontented gathered to hear the hope available in Christ. Where the local enforcement was a bit confused as to how to handle this huge gathering that occurred every Sunday morning, where Latino, white, African american and who knows else who was down on their luck gathered together as one big family in Christ. It sounds crazy and impossible- but a year ago I would have thought turning a small group into a church that has homeless people coming to its meetings was impossible. I don't know about you, but the mere vision of that excites me more than you can imagine. Who knows what God might do?
In 1 Samuel 22 we read about where David hid from Saul in the cave of Adullam. As David hid there in exile, we read in verse 2 that "everyone who was in distress, everyone who was in debt, and everyone who was discontented gathered unto him....there were about 400 men with him." Maybe you're familiar with the passage, maybe you're not- but I thought of that yesterday and how that should be a description of the church. The church should be known as the place where those down on their luck, in debt, and in distress can find refuge in a dangerous world.
I thought it was so cool how Maureen, Sylvia, and Diane joined us for the meeting yesterday, and how they were able to share that in the midst of the tough time they're going through right now, we have been a blessing to them, and how they plan to continue attending. As they shared, they have experienced Christ's love through our community, and I am so thankful for that.
But as I left, I thought again about that description of David and those that rallied around him. How cool would it be, I thought, if someday, Festival Park on Sunday mornings became known as the place to gather if you're down on your luck or in distress- and it was the place where all those in distress, in debt, and discontented gathered to hear the hope available in Christ. Where the local enforcement was a bit confused as to how to handle this huge gathering that occurred every Sunday morning, where Latino, white, African american and who knows else who was down on their luck gathered together as one big family in Christ. It sounds crazy and impossible- but a year ago I would have thought turning a small group into a church that has homeless people coming to its meetings was impossible. I don't know about you, but the mere vision of that excites me more than you can imagine. Who knows what God might do?
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Lunch for Sunday
What's everyone bringing for lunch this Sunday? The Steenlages will be out of town, so unfortunately you're on your own as far as coffee is concerned!
Remember the usual stuff, chairs, blankets, tables, extra bibles....
Is everyone remembering what Susie suggested on Sunday? If you weren't there, she suggested everyone bring EXTRA chairs this week and that we should all be praying daily that God fills them up, let's see what he can do!
Remember the usual stuff, chairs, blankets, tables, extra bibles....
Is everyone remembering what Susie suggested on Sunday? If you weren't there, she suggested everyone bring EXTRA chairs this week and that we should all be praying daily that God fills them up, let's see what he can do!
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Sunday Lunch
The Kirsch's are planning to supply the sandwiches again, what's everyone else bringing?
Remember your tables, chairs, blankets and extra bibles if you've got 'em!
see you Sunday!
Remember your tables, chairs, blankets and extra bibles if you've got 'em!
see you Sunday!
Monday, August 10, 2009
Yielding to Christ
So building on our discussion yesterday, what do you think it means to yield to Christ in the everyday? As Ephesians 3 tells us, we're not called to try really, really hard to have inner strength, nor are we asked to try really, really hard to be loving- but our only job is to yield to Christ. When we learn to simply yield to the indwelling Spirit, He will make us strong, and it naturally follows that Christ will be really at home in our hearts. In turn, when Christ is at home in our hearts, His love fills every room in our house, so to speak, and His love will naturally exude out of our life.
So if our only task, our only "marching orders" to remember are to yield to Christ, exactly what do you think that means? What are your thoughts? Can you think of any examples we can learn from?
So if our only task, our only "marching orders" to remember are to yield to Christ, exactly what do you think that means? What are your thoughts? Can you think of any examples we can learn from?
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Church in the park this Sunday
Let's get the planning going!
Angela and Jeff will be providing the sandwiches again, this time from Jewel or maybe Subway. They have a family reunion this weekend and only Jeff will be there, so let's try, if we can, to show up a little early for Jeff's sake to get things set up before he plans to start so he can leave on time!
I also had the idea that we could be bringing some extra bibles to share/give to visitors if they don't come with them. This is probably a more important expense than a tent, what does everyone think? I bet we all have at least one extra one lying around at home somewhere!
Angela and Jeff will be providing the sandwiches again, this time from Jewel or maybe Subway. They have a family reunion this weekend and only Jeff will be there, so let's try, if we can, to show up a little early for Jeff's sake to get things set up before he plans to start so he can leave on time!
I also had the idea that we could be bringing some extra bibles to share/give to visitors if they don't come with them. This is probably a more important expense than a tent, what does everyone think? I bet we all have at least one extra one lying around at home somewhere!
As for food, Eli and I will bring coffee and snacks for the morning, as well as a pasta salad. What else do we need?
As for other supplies, bring your chairs, tables and blankets as usual. Were those Scott and Rikki's tables last Sunday? Does someone else have a table they can bring in case Scott and Rikki can't make it?
Other ideas? Do we have a plan for the kids this week?
As for other supplies, bring your chairs, tables and blankets as usual. Were those Scott and Rikki's tables last Sunday? Does someone else have a table they can bring in case Scott and Rikki can't make it?
Other ideas? Do we have a plan for the kids this week?
here is a link to a website that offers cases of bibles at a discount price
this link offers bibles for CHEAP, but looks like its ONLY King James versions
Friday, July 24, 2009
Ephesians 3 Thoughts
In thinking about what the "mystery" is that Paul is talking about in Chapter 3 it seemed to relate to the gospel in Paul experience. I came to a few summaries of what this mystery looks like from the verses in Chapter 3. Not sure if it confuses things or makes them clearer, but here is what I came up with.
"Mystery"
Administration of God's grace to Paul on behalf of Gentiles (v.2)...of Christ(v.4)....by the Spirit of Christ(v.5)...to the apostles and prophets(v.5).
Another way of saying it....Gentiles and Jews(Israel) are united under one body in Christ, sharing in the same inheritance by way of Christ's Spirit, beneficiaries of the eternal promise accomplished in Jesus.
For Paul the gospel was the grace given him to be freed, through the promise accomplished in Jesus, to preach from his experience of the riches of Christ and the unity of the Faithful without regard to race in the body of the church. It is the fulfillment of God's purpose to show His glory in the diversity of the church through it's redemption in Christ.
This glory of the gospel requires that Christ be at the center so that the unity of the church body be in Christ and through Christ(by faith). Paul's personal grace in Christ allows him to preach the grace of the united church body.
So, my question is how our personal story of grace in Christ (the gospel) relates to how we live out and express the grace given to the unity and diversity in the community of the church and beyond? For Paul this meant that personally he found "freedom and confidence" in Christ to approach God. It was Christ's love and grace displayed through his life and death that brought Paul to a knowing of love that was surpassed knowledge. He had been reaching for this love through knowledge and the law, but now by the deeper power of Christ he knows the riches of Christ that dwell in His heart. And beyond this personal revelation that gives him hope in Christ, he is compelled to suffer and preach for the unity of the church and community so that Christ's purpose is fulfilled in the church.
That is a lot of heavy talk and spiritual words. So what does this mean for me? Personally I know beyond the knowledge of the gospel that I have been freed from the hypocrisy of my heart. Even with the knowledge and truth of Christ and his grace to me, my heart still leaned toward desiring and acting on what felt right in the moment. If for me it is only an acknowledgement of truth, I am not living in the freedom of my heart to live and love in the riches of Christ that last for eternity. Naturally, I want to be comfortable, to have the American dream, to have my own plot of home and land, to have a comfortable job, to have the perfect family life, to feel secure and safe in my suburban fantasy. Naturally, my heart wants to settle for something less significant and fulfilling. But in Christ, I should know that my heart is destined for greater riches and deeper fulfillment. Daily, I must tell my heart not to compromise and settle, but to suffer for the loving riches I have a share of in the the Spirit.
On a community and church level I believe Paul is calling us to racial reconciliation and justice so that God's glory can increase. We should extend the gospel of grace that we know in our hearts to the loving of those in our community. Especially to those of other races and cultures, so that the diversity of the church can be displayed in the promise and purpose of Christ. I think our prayer for our church should be call all peoples in our community(and therefor the world) to the deeper love and fulfillment of our hearts.
"I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you power through his spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge - that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God." Eph. 3:16-19
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Sunday in the Park
I thought I'd get the plans going for next sunday at Festival Park. Here is a link to a map and address of the park in case anyone is not sure where it's located...
The idea is to bring a picnic lunch instead of grilling out. Some ideas for types of food for lunch...?
Sandwiches
Pasta and/or Potato Salad
Fruit Salad, or just some fruit if that's easier
Chips and/or Pretzels
Soda and/or Juice
dessert ideas??
other things we might need...
picnic blankets (do they have tables there? i don't know)
chairs
cooler(s) and ice
jug of water (?)
It was easy to just throw some extra burgers or hot dogs on the grill if more people show up, or they come towards the end of the afternoon like they did last time, so is there a way we can plan on being prepared for that or for extra people when we're just bringing sandwiches? Also, that many sandwiches take a lot of preparation compared to burgers, so any ideas there, or ideas for another option besides sandwiches would be great! What do you think?
Last time having coffee and snacks before we started seemed to be a hit, so Eli and I will plan on bringing that again.
Are there some ways that we can think of to let our guests feel involved? Maybe we all have some ideas about how to involve them in the discussion time. It seemed to go well last time, but we should be thinking about how we can simply involve them in it and not feel like we need to be witnessing to or impressing them all the time (Not that I feel that's what happened at all, its just something to keep in mind!) Maybe we can bring some stuff to do...lets keep it simple and laid back, just frisbees or yard games to play to encourage everyone to interact...
Friday, July 17, 2009
Snacks for Wayside 7/18
Hey guys -
Who is coming to Wayside and what sort of snacks/drinks are you bringing? I think the plan is to meet there and then see how they feel about going bowling. Lets bring the games again as a back up plan.
Friday, July 10, 2009
7/12 meeting
Hey guys- wanted to let you know that this week, we will NOT be doing lunch this week.
As you know, the text this week is Ephesians 2 and 3. Feel free to share any insights you might have here or begin a discussion!
As you know, the text this week is Ephesians 2 and 3. Feel free to share any insights you might have here or begin a discussion!
Thursday, July 2, 2009
7/5 meeting
So with regards to food this Sunday, who will be staying for lunch? Once we know that we can determine what we're doing for food.
Monday, June 22, 2009
6/28 meeting at Wing Park
So here's what we need for Sunday. We need your help.
1) We need a grill. Does anyone have a grill that they can bring for us to use that a) can be transported without falling apart (mine is rusted and won't tolerate being taken apart) and that also b) can be fit into a car to be brought over? This is crucial.
2) we need food and drinks. I think we should plan for 30-40 people- if we have food left over, esp. meat, we can likely freeze it and cook it up the next week for the meeting at our house July 5th. What are you all planning on bringing?
3) We need coolers and ice, likely as many as possible, not only for drinks, but to keep the food cold before we cook it up and to preserve it if we don't need it all.
4) we need a few people to get there early and help us get situated; a few of us should get there by 9 AM. Who's willing to come early?
5) we'll need chairs. Who can bring folding or stacking chairs? I have about 5 I can bring, and I think we will need at least 20.
I'm probably forgetting a few things, so make sure you read all the entries as the discussion unfolds. Let's get the discussion going!
1) We need a grill. Does anyone have a grill that they can bring for us to use that a) can be transported without falling apart (mine is rusted and won't tolerate being taken apart) and that also b) can be fit into a car to be brought over? This is crucial.
2) we need food and drinks. I think we should plan for 30-40 people- if we have food left over, esp. meat, we can likely freeze it and cook it up the next week for the meeting at our house July 5th. What are you all planning on bringing?
3) We need coolers and ice, likely as many as possible, not only for drinks, but to keep the food cold before we cook it up and to preserve it if we don't need it all.
4) we need a few people to get there early and help us get situated; a few of us should get there by 9 AM. Who's willing to come early?
5) we'll need chairs. Who can bring folding or stacking chairs? I have about 5 I can bring, and I think we will need at least 20.
I'm probably forgetting a few things, so make sure you read all the entries as the discussion unfolds. Let's get the discussion going!
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Food for 6/14
So what are we all bringing for food this Sunday? Angela and I will be providing the main dish.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Exodus 1-18 thoughts
As I read Exodus 1-18 for this week, several questions arise in my mind, as does when I read almost any Old Testament passage. What are your thought on these?
First, throughout this passage, the writer makes it clear that God knows ahead of time Pharoah's every response before it occurs. In fact, not only does God tell Moses ahead of time that Pharoah's heart will be hard (Ex. 3:19, for instance), but we see God actually hardens Pharoah's heart on purpose (Ex. 7:3) . Is Pharoah really responsible for his rebellion against God if God is the one hardening his heart? What do you think?
Second, do you think these are random plagues that God sends upon Egypt, or is there a specific message directed towards the Egyptians with each plague? Why do you think that God decides to use the plagues that He does?
I'm curious as to your thoughts!
First, throughout this passage, the writer makes it clear that God knows ahead of time Pharoah's every response before it occurs. In fact, not only does God tell Moses ahead of time that Pharoah's heart will be hard (Ex. 3:19, for instance), but we see God actually hardens Pharoah's heart on purpose (Ex. 7:3) . Is Pharoah really responsible for his rebellion against God if God is the one hardening his heart? What do you think?
Second, do you think these are random plagues that God sends upon Egypt, or is there a specific message directed towards the Egyptians with each plague? Why do you think that God decides to use the plagues that He does?
I'm curious as to your thoughts!
Friday, May 29, 2009
Monday, May 18, 2009
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
The story of Jacob and Isaac
If you've read Genesis 25-36, here's your chance to comment on it. Many questions came to my mind as I read it, and here's some of them. Curious as to your thoughts.
First and probably foremost, what is the deal with the constant polygamy, adultery, and general lewdness of these Bible characters? We see more women sleeping with their fathers or brother in laws than I care to count. Wives suggest that their husbands should sleep with the slave girl. Women pose as prostitutes to seduce their father in law, and men fear they will be butchered if their favorite wife is attractive. I especially liked the part where Rachel lets Leah sleep with Jacob that night in exchange for some mandrakes. Strange stuff, huh?
When I read all this, I have to constantly keep in mind that this is a really old text, giving us a view of an ancient world very, very different from ours. In that world, everything rose and fell on the birth of children. A woman with no children was considered cursed by the gods, the scum of the earth. And if you had children but no sons, as a woman you couldn't work to provide for yourself, so you would literally starve to death. In that case, you'd have desperate women sleeping with their father in law, their brother, anyone to provide children for them. When we keep this in mind, I think many of these details make a bit more sense.
Maybe even more importantly, what about the part where Jacob wrestles with God? Why does God physically wrestle with him? Why must He leave before the sun comes up? Why will he not tell Jacob his name? What's the significance of Jacob walking with a limp from then on? I'm throwing that out to you to get your thoughts- I don't know if I have an answer.
First and probably foremost, what is the deal with the constant polygamy, adultery, and general lewdness of these Bible characters? We see more women sleeping with their fathers or brother in laws than I care to count. Wives suggest that their husbands should sleep with the slave girl. Women pose as prostitutes to seduce their father in law, and men fear they will be butchered if their favorite wife is attractive. I especially liked the part where Rachel lets Leah sleep with Jacob that night in exchange for some mandrakes. Strange stuff, huh?
When I read all this, I have to constantly keep in mind that this is a really old text, giving us a view of an ancient world very, very different from ours. In that world, everything rose and fell on the birth of children. A woman with no children was considered cursed by the gods, the scum of the earth. And if you had children but no sons, as a woman you couldn't work to provide for yourself, so you would literally starve to death. In that case, you'd have desperate women sleeping with their father in law, their brother, anyone to provide children for them. When we keep this in mind, I think many of these details make a bit more sense.
Maybe even more importantly, what about the part where Jacob wrestles with God? Why does God physically wrestle with him? Why must He leave before the sun comes up? Why will he not tell Jacob his name? What's the significance of Jacob walking with a limp from then on? I'm throwing that out to you to get your thoughts- I don't know if I have an answer.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Food for Sat 5/9
Hi Everyone~
I was thinking of ordering Chinese for Saturday, and we can all chip in? Sound good?
I was thinking of ordering Chinese for Saturday, and we can all chip in? Sound good?
Thursday, April 30, 2009
The Story of Abraham
This week's text is Genesis 12- 25: the story of Abraham. Who has begun to read so far? What questions does the text bring up in your mind?
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Welcome to the City on a Hill Blog!
This is where we will have additional discussions outside of the group. There isn't always enough time to cover everything and answer all the questions, so we wanted to have an area to keep the conversations going. Have fun!
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